The Open Public Health Journal

Article Title:

Abstract:

Background: Stunting remains a significant global health challenge affecting millions of children under five years old. While nutrition interventions have been the primary focus, the role of adequate hydration in preventing stunting is less understood. Aim: This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the impact of adequate hydration on stunting among children under five years of age and explore its potential as a complementary intervention to existing nutrition strategies. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Studies published between 2000 and 2024 addressing hydration, water intake, or water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions in relation to child growth and stunting were included. The review synthesized findings from observational studies, intervention trials, and systematic reviews. Result: The review found evidence suggesting that adequate hydration may contribute to reduced stunting risk through improved nutrient absorption, better appetite regulation, and enhanced overall health. While direct studies on hydration and stunting are limited, broader WASH interventions have shown promising results in reducing stunting prevalence. The review also identified significant gaps in current research, particularly in studies directly measuring hydration status in relation to linear growth in children. Conclusion: Adequate hydration, especially when integrated with WASH interventions, may play a crucial role in stunting prevention. The findings suggest that incorporating hydration strategies into existing nutrition and child health programs could enhance their effectiveness. However, more targeted research is needed to establish a direct causal relationship between hydration status and stunting. Future studies should focus on longitudinal assessments of hydration and its impact on linear growth in children, particularly in resource-limited settings.